U.S. Reopened Cattle Border Crossing in Arizona

Livestock importers and beef processors will gain access to Mexican supply as part of a move to curb record prices.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Agriculture

Isometric editorial illustration of a heavy industrial steel livestock gate in an arid desert landscape, symbolizing agricultural trade policy. — The USDA began a phased reopening of the Douglas, Arizona cattle crossing to Mexico, aiming to ease record-high domestic beef prices. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The U.S. government authorized the reopening of a cattle crossing in Douglas, Arizona, following a reduction in New World screwworm spread concerns. The administration also approved 331,000 tons of tariff-free ground beef imports to mitigate record retail meat costs.

Why it matters

The move aims to address an supply-side crisis caused by a U.S. cattle herd that fell to 86.2 million head on January 1, the lowest level in 75 years. Retail prices for ground beef and steak have surged 57% and 35% respectively since 2021, pressuring margins for food service operators and retailers.

The U.S. cattle herd stands at 86.2 million head, the lowest total in 75 years, while ground beef prices reached $6.89 per pound. The government has authorized 331,000 tons of tariff-free ground beef imports to be sold over the next 90 days.

The players

U.S. Department of Agriculture

The federal executive agency responsible for developing and executing federal laws related to farming, forestry, and food.

President of the United States

The head of the executive branch who authorized the tariff-free beef imports to address record-high prices.

The details

The USDA is implementing a phased reopening of the Douglas, Arizona crossing after closing all livestock borders to Mexico in May 2025 due to screwworm concerns. By facilitating the import of Mexican cattle and 331,000 tons of ground beef, the government intends to inject supply into the domestic market. However, industry participants expect it will take months for import volumes to return to traditional levels despite the easing of border restrictions.

May 2025: U.S. authorities closed the border to livestock imports from Mexico.
January 1, 2026: U.S. cattle herd dropped to a 75-year low of 86.2 million head.
July 2026: Uncooked steak prices climbed to a record $13.06 per pound.
September 25, 2026: The administration announced the tariff-free beef import authorization.
September 28, 2026: The government signaled the reopening of the Douglas, Arizona crossing.

Market Landscape

This decision represents a direct policy reversal of the livestock border closures enacted in May 2025. It follows a prolonged period of tightening domestic cattle supply that has pushed retail beef prices to record highs over the last five years.

Food service operators and retailers should anticipate a gradual easing of wholesale beef procurement costs over the next 90 days. Procurement teams should watch for import volume updates as the Douglas, Arizona crossing returns to operational status.

The takeaway

The reopening of the Douglas, Arizona crossing signals a pivot toward alleviating supply-side pressures that have driven retail beef prices up 57% since 2021. Operators should track the 331,000-ton tariff-free import window to adjust procurement strategies before the 90-day period expires.